Arguably the most used clubs in your bag, except for maybe the putter, irons play an important role when you are playing a round. Even today, most people use irons as opposed to fairway woods, which are becoming increasingly popular in the world of golf.
Distance for your irons can be hard to judge sometimes. Here is a distance guide that can help you evaluate which iron to play based on distance from the flag. The basic set of irons usually run from the 3-iron to the 9-iron. Thought the 2-iron and 1-iron are available for you brave souls. Remember, there are always variable (wind, weather, etc) but for the most part, if you are able to hit the ball properly, then the following distances will apply. Feel free to print this guide out and take it with you.
These distances are specified for the amateur golfer:
3-Iron: 170-190 yards (155-174 m). This is the longest of the irons in the standard set.
4-Iron: 160-180 yards (146-183 m). Still a club used for distance, but the shorter shaft allows for more control.
5-Iron: 150-170 yards (137-155 m). This iron places emphasis on both accuracy and distance. This is a good iron to always have in your bag.
6-Iron: 140-160 yards (128-146 m). Most commonly known as the easiest iron in the bag to use.
7-Iron: 130-150 yards (119-137 m). Accuracy and control are both attainable with this shorter iron.
8-Iron: 120-140 yards (110-128 m). This is known as an attacking club. You can really get down to business with it.
9-Iron: 110-130 yards (101-119 m). This club is considered a long pitching club. Use it as a shot saver.
Knowing and understanding your iron distances is extremely important if you want to shoot a solid round. Hopefully this helps some. Feel free to print this out. Check out our other distance guides as well.
Distance Guide: Special Clubs